From Opus

Alternative names: Red-breasted Sparrowhawk; Rufous Sparrowhawk

Accipiter rufiventris

Photo by Alan Manson
Mt. Gilboa, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa

Photo by Alan Manson
Mt. Gilboa, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa

[edit] Identification

Length: 29-36 cm. Females (200 g) larger than males (120 g). In southern Africa, the unmarked rufous underparts are diagnostic. Upperparts slate grey, head appears hooded.

[edit] Distribution

Fragmented populations in eastern Africa from Ethiopia to South Africa.

[edit] Taxonomy

Two subspecies:¹

• A. r. rufiventris

• Montane forests of Kenya and eastern Zaire to South Africa

• A. r. perspicillaris

• Highland forests of Ethiopia

[edit] Habitat

Afromontane forest or stands of alien trees with adjacent grassland or fynbos.

[edit] Behaviour

Solitary or in pairs. Generally inconspicuous, spending much time perched high in trees. Hunts mainly for small birds over open country.

[edit] References

1. Clements JF. 2007. The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World. 6th ed., with updates to October 2008. Cornell University Press. ISBN 9780801445019

[edit] External Links